Choosing a Counselor
In choosing a counselor, always keep in mind that you are a consumer. You are purchasing a service from a professional and have choices about whether you want to begin such a relationship. The following list of questions are only suggestions and are not listed in any order. Feel free to use them in any way you choose. Also listed below is the Client's Bill of Rights - a list of your rights as a client. For additional information, please contact the Mental Health Association of Onondaga County at 445-5606.
Suggested questions to ask a potential counselor:
- What are your techniques of training, experience, and specialization? Are there particular techniques you use?
- Will you discuss my treatment plan with me? What happens if we disagree about my goals?
- Are you licensed by or registered with the state?
- Have you ever had a charge of unethical conduct brought against you?
- For what length of time do you usually treat clients?
- Is there anyone with whom you will be discussing my case?
- Have you had experience with other people in similar situations?
- Do you charge for an initial consultation? Do you charge for a telephone consultation?
- How much do you charge for each counseling session? Will my insurance pay for this counseling?
- How long will our appointments be?
- If I decide that I would like to work with you, are there any other interviews that you require me to complete?
You may also want to ask questions about the counselor's values or attitudes which may affect your counseling (for example, attitudes toward gays/lesbians, abortion, or non-traditional living arrangements.
Client's Bill of Rights
You have the right to:
- Confidentiality (know under what circumstances the counselor may discuss your case)
- Receive respectful treatment
- Ask questions at any time and receive respectful answers
- Choose your own lifestyle and have that choice respected by your counselor
- Experience a safe setting, free from abuse of any kind (Please note: Sexual contact is never appropriate in the counseling session or relationship)
- Disclose only that personal information which you choose, and refuse to answer any question, if you choose
- Refuse treatment or a particular intervention strategy
- Terminate therapy at any time
- Consult as many counselors as you choose until you find someone with whom you feel you can work
- Know what the waiting period is, if any
- Agree to a written contract of counseling goals or treatment plan
- Talk about any part of your counseling with anyone you choose
- Require the therapist to send an extra report regarding your therapy with your written authorization (and advise you of any extra charge)
- Have access to summaries of written files about you at your request, when legally possible
You also have the right to have full information regarding the following:
- Fees, method of payment, and insurance reimbursement
- Counselor's qualifications to practice
- Counselor's therapeutic orientation and techniques
- Your diagnosis, if your counselor uses one
- Extent of written or taped records of your counseling sessions and whether you will have access to them